A handsome leathery fern from the Andean cordillera that has mahogany colored new growth with bold, lanceolate, undivided segments along the rachis. It may occasionally put up separate, very upright fertile fronds which are much narrower in character during the summer. They particularly love moist areas and will tolerate quite a bit more sun than many other species of Blechnum, and may tolerate full sun if consistent ample moisture is available. While there is a slight difference between the species B. chilense and B. cordatum, they are often mixed up in the trade, and Barbara Hoshizaki notes in her book Fern Grower’s Manual that most forms of B. chilense circulating on the U.S. commercial market are really B. cordatum, hence they are usually considered synonymous.

Frond condition: Evergreen, Colorful New Growth, Arching with upright Fertile Fronds (Dimorphic)

Mature Size: 2’

Origin: South America

Root Type: Spreading rhizome with both central rosettes and decentralized fronds

Cultural Requirements: Part Sun to Shade, Evenly Moist. May tolerate Full Sun in Bog-like conditions.

USDA Zones: 7, 8, 9